The fundraising-focused thrift store first opened in 1949.
The Junior League of Atlanta, Inc. (JLA) Thursday announced it will close the Nearly New Shop, its longest-running fundraiser, April 30.
What Now Atlanta first reported the news mid-January, but an exact closing date had not been determined at the time.
The shop, which opened in 1949, has provided a large portion of JLA’s fundraised income by selling gently-used merchandise including clothing, accessories, furniture and other household items.
In its almost seven decades, Nearly New Shop has generated millions of dollars that supported several of the JLA’s charitable programs and activities in Atlanta, according to Thursday’s announcement.
On April 8, from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., JLA will celebrate the store’s legacy with a farewell sendoff and reception for customers. During the sendoff, patrons can shop while enjoying food, drinks, a photo booth and drawings for gift cards and other prizes.
“Nearly New Shop has thrived for many years, enabling the Junior League of Atlanta to make a lasting impact on the local community,” Deanna Anderson, JLA president said in the announcement.
“Anyone who shopped, or donated goods and volunteer hours, has helped to make the store a success. Unfortunately, multiple factors including increased competition, an ongoing decrease in revenue and the need to meet the evolving needs of our volunteers necessitated this decision.”
The announcement to close the thrift store comes as many Junior League chapters across the country are moving away from labor-intensive initiatives like thrift shops and rummage sales to refocus on core competencies such as leadership training and community outreach.
Anderson said that due to growing competition in the consignment shop industry, maintaining a retail storefront is no longer an effective avenue for fundraising.
“By focusing our fundraising efforts on impactful programs and leadership initiatives, we can serve our community better,” Anderson said.
“As JLA closes its Centennial year, and focuses on how to make the biggest impact for its next 100 years, the closing of Nearly New Shop opens a new chapter of fundraising opportunities for us and our vibrant, creative group of volunteers.”
Nearly New Shop is located in the Toco Hills Shopping Center near Emory University. The store will hold several sales throughout March and April leading up to its official closing.
Well that’s sad to hear. I have always taken my better stuff to them for donations and I have friends who have found great things there. RIP – Nearly New.